Lonnie Vernon Mitchem passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at University Hospitals of Cleveland. He was 76. Lonnie was born March 2, 1946, in Gaffney, South Carolina, the son of the late Walter and Margaret Graham (nee Mitchem).

Lonnie attended South Carolina public schools before moving to Cleveland, Ohio in 1959. In 1963, he graduated from John Adams High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Following high school, Lonnie enlisted in the United States Army. During his years of service, he served two tours in Vietnam, as well as Germany and Korea. He later returned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he served the remaining years before being honorably discharged in 1976. While stationed in Fort Bragg, Lonnie met the love of his life Linda, and to this union three children were born. In 1979, Lonnie moved his family back to Cleveland, Ohio. During this time, he was employed with the Veteran’s Health Administration and the United States Postal Service, while attending Cuyahoga Community College where he earned his Associates of Culinary Arts. In the early 1990’s Lonnie began his career as an Owner/Operator truck driver, which he loved. He drove trucks for over 25 years until his health declined.

Lonnie, known as “Mitch, Mister, Money Man, Old Man, Cat Daddy, EZ and Papa,” always had a joke or story for everyone he met. Mitch was a very straightforward and opinionated individual who always spoke his mind. He had a love for basketball, boxing, and football. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Left to cherish many fond memories is his loving and devoted wife, Linda whom he treasured. They would have celebrated fifty-two years of marriage in August. Lonnie leaves two daughters, Rolanda and Laquetta, and one son, Dietrick; Four grandsons: Brandon (Cristian), Diante, Devon, and Bravonte; Five great-grandchildren: D’mari, Braylen, Bryanne, Brycen and Dream; Four sisters: Margaret, Addie, Mamie, and Shelia and one brother Daryl, all from Cleveland, Ohio. He also leaves behind a host of Nephews, Nieces, Cousins, and Friends around the world. Mitch was an amazing husband, father and role model who will be dearly missed by all.